question about applying for rn jobs

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Is it okay to start applying for jobs as a new RN graduate before you have taken your nclex?

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Yes. Some employers hire people before passing NCLEX. Unfortunately you place more pressure on yourself in this scenario and may lose the job if you do not pass NCLEX when expected. Easier on yourself to start applying as soon as you know that you have the license. JMO

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Specializes in geriatrics.

I was hired before I wrote my exam. In this economy, it doesn't hurt to start looking early. It may take 6 to 8 months to get hired. I just got lucky.

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Thanks!

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Absolutely. If I could go back in time, I would have done that. Many of the students did that and by the time they passed the NCLEX, they had a job waiting.

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*students in my class

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Definitely start looking before graduation. Some new grad programs have a limit for how long you can have been out of nursing school to be considered and only hire periodically so you want to make sure you make cuttoffs like that. Several of my classmates had jobs prior to graduation, AND even if you don't get a job right away you can follow up with the ones you've already applied for updating them of your status (contact them when you graduate and contact them when you pass the NCLEX, each time reiterating your interest in working with X hospital).

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Specializes in Family Medicine.

I did and here's what happened:

-Applied in November 2010

-Graduated in December 2010

-Called for an interview in January 2011

-Took the NCLEX February 11, 2011

-Interviewed on February 17, 2011

-Offered a job on February 17, 2011

-Name posted on state website on February 28, 2011

-Began work on March 14, 2011

I live in a state that will not let you work before you have your name posted on the state website. They still called me for an interview even though I had not taken my NCLEX yet. This is proof you can apply and be offered an interview before taking the NCLEX!

I've heard that they won't take you seriously until you have a license and I considered holding off on applying until I passed the NCLEX. However, needless to say, I'm really glad I went ahead and applied. You really have nothing to loose (except a few hours studying for the NCLEX or in my case my last semester finals).

Go for it! GOOD LUCK! Stay positive. :)

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Yes, definitely. You should start the job hunt ASAP!! Good luck!

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